Flossing is one of the most important things you can do to prevent gum disease and tooth decay in between the teeth. Along with brushing your teeth, it is the most effective way to remove plaque.

Flossing the teeth comes with a number of benefits, and neglecting to floss regularly can lead to a number of serious dental and gum problems. One of these is cavities. Brushing does not clean in between your teeth. When the plaque and food and sugar in between your teeth are not removed by flossing, they start to eat away at the enamel in your teeth, eventually causing cavities in between the teeth. These are difficult, if not impossible, to detect without an x-ray from the dentist.

Gum disease is another result of not flossing. Flossing properly is also important for the gum line. Gum diseases, or periodontal diseases, occur when people don't brush or floss enough. Some common symptoms of this include sore or bleeding gums, hardened gums, and eventual tooth decay.

Types of floss
There are two main types of dental floss - waxed and weaved, or unwaxed. If you're confused about which type of floss you should use, keep in mind that while each have their own benefits and everyone has their own personal preference, they are both equally effective when it comes to removing plaque.

Waxed floss has a coating on it that makes it easier for many people to slide the floss between tight teeth or tight restorations. Waxed floss is also not prone to shredding, as weaved floss is. However, some claim that waxed floss leaves a residue on the teeth.

Weaved floss, on the other hand, tends to make a squeaking sound that lets you know your teeth are clean. However, this type of floss tends to tear and shred, and these pieces can get snagged in the teeth.

When it comes down to it, it's all a personal preference, as both types are about equal when it comes to removing plaque. You can also get floss, both waxed and unwaxed, in flavors such as mint and cinnamon.

Flossing properly
Once you have chosen the type of floss you like the best, it's important to floss properly. Practice proper flossing techniques. Pull the floss taut and pinch it between your thumbs and index fingers. These fingers will be your guides as you floss. Keep the floss in the center taut, and then slowly and gently work floss between your teeth and down to the gum line. Once you are finished flossing, brush your teeth.

Experts recommend you floss your teeth at least once a day. If you ever find that something is lodged in your teeth, use floss to gently try and remove it rather than picking at the teeth and gums with foreign objects.

Make sure to floss gently, and avoid snapping the floss into your gums. This can cause damage and bleeding to your gums. In addition, do not pull floss back and forth against the gums. This can be painful if your gums are sensitive and can also cause damage to your gums.